Crime and Punishment USA

Crime and Punishment U.S.A. is a 1959 American crime drama film directed by Denis Sanders, written by Walter Newman and starring George Hamilton in his first screen role. The film was released on November 1, 1959. The New York Times called the film "a beat generation version" of the novel Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky. The film differs from the book in some of its plot elements and characterizations, and it takes place in contemporary Santa Monica rather than in 19th-century Russia. Hamilton's performance led to MGM casting him in Home from the Hill (1959). Filmink noted " It really is kind of amazing that someone who became famous for his suntan and lifestyle made his debut in such an arty production."